UTA professor named president of leading landscape group
Taner R. Özdil, associate professor in the The University of Texas at Arlington’s Landscape Architecture Program, has been inducted as president of CELA—the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture—the leading organization for educators in the field.
The appointment recognizes Dr. Özdil’s long-standing contributions to landscape architecture education, research and professional leadership. With over three decades of academic experience in landscape architecture, urban design and physical planning, he focuses on environmental, economic, and social value creation, resilience and performance, as well as the integration of public spaces within rapidly growing cities.
“It is an honor to serve in this role and to support the dedicated educators shaping the future of our built environments,” Özdil said. “I look forward to working with CELA members to elevate our collective impact and promote meaningful scholarship and practice in landscape architecture.”
CELA includes nearly all landscape architecture programs in the U.S. and Canada, along with institutions in Australia and New Zealand. Özdil’s election as president highlights his impact on the field—and comes at a pivotal time, following the profession’s designation as a STEM discipline in 2023.
As president, Özdil will lead efforts to advance academic excellence, foster innovation in teaching and research, and strengthen collaboration among institutions across North America and internationally. His selection marks a milestone for UT Arlington and the broader planning and landscape architecture community, underscoring the University’s leadership in landscape architecture and urban design education and its commitment to preparing global change-makers.
While focused on advancing CELA’s mission, Özdil also hopes his appointment will inspire his students and junior faculty at UTA to believe that hard work and determination can open doors to leadership.
“Dr. Özdil's presidency elevates not only the reputation of UTA’s Landscape Architecture Program but also the stature of the University worldwide,” said Ming-Han Li, dean of the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs. “I’m proud of his accomplishments and look forward to witnessing his leadership outcomes.”